DETECTIVES in north Belfast have arrested a female youth and two women following an arson attack at a flat in Agnes Street in the early hours of this morning.

The 16 year old and two 21 year olds were arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life after a fire was started at the front door of the property at around 3.30am.

A female occupant escaped the scene through a window before fire service personnel extinguished the fire.

The property was excessively smoke damaged and the front porch and entrance hallway were badly damaged by fire.

All three females remain in custody assisting officers with their enquiries.

Detective Inspector Nigel Snoddy has appealed for anyone with any information about this incident to contact detectives at Musgrave on 101 quoting reference number 176 10/06/16.

Alternatively information can be given anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.